June 24, 2026

Marshall Emergency Medical Services Launches Pre-Hospital Blood Administration Program

Marshall Emergency Medical Services has officially launched its Pre-Hospital Blood Administration Program, a significant advancement in emergency medical care that will allow specially trained paramedics to administer blood products to critically ill and injured patients before they arrive at the hospital.

The new program enhances the ability of emergency responders to provide rapid, lifesaving treatment in situations where severe blood loss or trauma threatens a patient's survival. By making blood products available in the field, Marshall EMS – part of Huntsville Hospital Health System EMS – can begin treatment during the earliest moments of care, when every minute matters.

"This program represents a major step forward in the level of emergency care available to the residents of Marshall County and the surrounding region," said Hunter Blanton, a critical care paramedic with Marshall EMS. "Providing blood transfusions before a patient reaches the hospital can improve outcomes for patients experiencing traumatic injuries, significant blood loss, and other life-threatening emergencies."

The launch at Marshall EMS builds on Huntsville Hospital Health System’s broader effort to expand access to pre-hospital blood administration across the region. The program was first launched in Madison County through HEMSI and has become an important advancement in bringing lifesaving care closer to patients before they reach the hospital.

“Expanding pre-hospital blood administration is one of the most meaningful ways we can bring advanced emergency care closer to patients,” said Jon Howell, president of Huntsville Hospital Health System EMS. “When someone is experiencing severe blood loss, the care they receive before reaching the hospital can be critical. This rollout in Marshall County reflects a broader HH Health EMS commitment to giving our teams the tools, training and resources to help save lives across our region.”

The Pre-Hospital Blood Administration Program is the result of extensive planning and collaboration among Emergency Medical Services professionals, Marshall EMS Medical Director Victor Sparks, hospital leaders, laboratory personnel, support staff and other clinical and operational partners. Their collective efforts helped establish the protocols, training, equipment and logistical support necessary to safely bring blood transfusion capabilities into the pre-hospital environment.

The Marshall Medical Centers Foundation along with the Alabama Department of Public Health and North Alabama Healthcare Coalition provided funding to make this possible.

Research has shown that early administration of blood products can improve survival rates among patients suffering from hemorrhagic shock and other critical conditions. The program positions Marshall EMS among a growing number of advanced EMS systems nationwide that are expanding access to this innovative level of care.

"This achievement reflects the dedication and commitment of many individuals across our organization who share a common goal: providing the highest level of care possible for our patients," said Marshall EMS Director Shane Parker. "We are proud to bring this capability to our community and excited about the positive impact it will have on the lives of those we serve."

About Marshall EMS
Marshall EMS provides emergency medical services throughout Marshall County and works in partnership with Marshall Medical Centers and Huntsville Hospital Health System Emergency Medical Services to deliver high-quality, patient-centered emergency care. Through ongoing investments in technology, training and clinical excellence, Marshall EMS remains committed to advancing healthcare and improving outcomes for the communities it serves